Aqib Talib ‘Day-To-Day,’ But Cornerback Sounds Close To Return

BOSTON (CBS) — Aqib Talib was having a Pro Bowl-caliber season, up until a hip injury in Week 6 against the Saints.

He’s been out ever since, but after resting for four weeks, Talib spoke in the Patriots’ locker room on Thursday, and he sounded like a man nearly ready to take the field come Monday night.

“Day-to-day, trying to get back,” Talib, who was listed as a limited participant in Thursday’s practice, told reporters.

“Definitely,” Talib said when asked if it’s been a tough month. “Any time you have to watch your guys go to war without you, man, that’s the worst thing in the world.”

The Patriots had last weekend off, which bought Talib extra time to heal without costing him playing time. The 27-year-old seemed to indicate that when it comes to what kind of work he’s most focused on right now, it’s on catching up to the speed of the game.

The Patriots’ pass defense has been pretty strong, despite missing Talib for almost half of the season. The Patriots allow 6.7 yards per pass attempt, ranking 10th in the league in that department. They’re also tied for fifth in the NFL in interceptions with 12, but Talib accounts for four of those, leading the team. Rookie Duron Harmon has two and is the only other Patriot with multiple interceptions.